Book your place for October’s small business surgery at Jubilee Library

The council’s small business ambassador, Councillor Mohammed Asaduzzaman, will host his second surgery at the Business & IP Centre (BIPC) at Jubilee Library on 16 October.

The sessions, which must be booked in advance, give business owners and entrepreneurs the opportunity to talk to Cllr Asaduzzaman about opportunities for their business, building on the work of the BIPC and the new Growth Hub digital service.

Following feedback from the first event, the surgery will run from 5pm to 7pm with slots available to book through Eventbrite.

Strong dialogue

Cllr Asaduzzaman took on the role of small business ambassador following his year as Mayor and his bi-monthly surgeries aim to help build a strong dialogue with business owners and entrepreneurs.

Councillor Asaduzzaman said: “As someone who has served this city both as a civic leader and now as small business ambassador, I’ve had the privilege of working directly with the people who power our communities.

“From local shops to market traders and those running our beloved festivals, these small businesses are more than just economic units – they are cultural contributors, employers and anchors of trust on our high streets.

“Brighton & Hove is known for its independence, creativity and community values. That spirit starts with our small businesses and it’s our responsibility to ensure they have a voice in shaping our city’s future.

“As the region moves towards devolution, we want to make sure our independent businesses can harness the potential benefits.”

Economic plan

Councillor Asaduzzaman’s appointment builds on the council’s existing support for city businesses, with the surgeries playing an important role in bringing businesses together and enhancing engagement.

Last year the council launched a citywide Economic Plan to re-affirm its commitment to supporting and accelerating skills, jobs, and sustainable growth across the city.

The plan encourages imaginative ways to reach communities and neighbourhoods and build on the work of the many innovative small businesses, to create a fairer, more sustainable, and more productive city.